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Hedera ivy includes several ivy species, including Algerian ivy (Hedera canariensis). The vining plants have green, lobed leaves with light-green variegation. It's fast-growing and has a potential for invasiveness, covering the ground and any structure in its path if left untended. The ivy produces small roots with a gluelike substance that allows the vine to cling to almost any surface. It tolerates many kinds of moist, fertile soil in sunny or shaded areas. Algerian ivy is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6a through 11b. Pruning frequently throughout the year is the key to controlling growth and maintaining attractive plants.

1

Cut back the ivy plant with pruning shears or scissors at any time to the desired length or height. Cut the area below the joint where a leaf meets a stem. Pull off all undesired growth on structures. Ivy plants aren't damaged easily by pruning. So precise cutting isn't absolutely necessary.

2

Separate the shoots, and cut off woody or dead stems with pruning shears or scissors to maintain healthy new growth.

3

Pinch or trim off long or leggy tendrils that produce spaced or minimal leaves.

4

Maintain a potted ivy's fullness, if desired, by pinning the plant's healthiest shoot into the soil in the center of the pot. Curl the shoot around the center of the pot so leaves face upward. Use bobby pins to pin at the leaf nodes to hold them in place. Pin down the other healthy shoots. The leaf nodes will take root and help provide a denser appearance as they grow.

Things You Will Need

Pruning shears or scissors

Bobby pins (optional)

Tip

English ivy cuttings can be placed in water to sprout roots. The cuttings can be replanted in soil to produce new ivy plants.

About the Author

Shelley Marie has been writing professionally since 2008 for online marketing and informational websites. Her areas of expertise include home, garden and health. She holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and an associate degree in medical billing and insurance coding, both from Herzing University.